Managed IT Support - Microsoft Word or Google Docs: Balancing Powerful Features with Smooth Collaboration
Just how much do you need out of a word processing program? With Microsoft Word or Google Docs, it depends on what you are trying to achieve.
When thinking about whether your service needs to utilize Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, the difference between each's data processing applications might be the make or break aspect.
Microsoft Word and Google Docs both work as cloud-connected writing centers, but the importance of your documents could shape your choice.
As users will see across M365 and Workspace, the difference between desktop and web apps is about stabilizing some of Microsoft's deeper features and Google's focus on partnership.
In this post, we will look at the differences between Word and Docs, breaking down how the advantages and drawbacks of each could impact your workflow.
Rates
Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace are priced per user, each month, and have different tiers of rates. As it relates to Word and Docs, the difference in tiers normally only affects storage area and schedule of the Word desktop app.
The desktop apps are not available through Microsoft's Business Basic plan ($ 5/user/month), so users at that level will have to be pleased with Word Online.
Microsoft offers its apps for as low as $8.25/ user/month, however users then lose on other functions like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and Exchange Online.
Meanwhile, every Google Workplace subscription comes with all its web apps. Google does not have downloadable desktop apps, and all should be run out of a web browser.
When it comes to how much drive storage is readily available across all these memberships, see the graphic listed below:
A grid showing the rates and storage capabilities of Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
Text files are not most likely to make much of a dent in your general storage, except possibly on Google's starter plan with only 30 GB of drive storage.
One TB of area on Microsoft's most low-cost offering would be more than enough to house all of your Word files and plenty more.
In general, the features throughout both M365 and Workspace will identify which among these rates works for you.
Features
Not every company requires thorough functions for composing documents, however if you utilize your word processor to write more than one-page reports, there is an opportunity you will.
Google Docs is an excellent application for college students who wish to have the ability to compose basic papers with little format that they can access from anywhere they have a web connection.
Anything more than that, and Docs doesn't compare the power of Word. All of it comes down to if Docs is enough.
Docs does have some functions that Word online does not, like the capability to edit text designs that you utilize consistently, as well as an insertable tabulation.
The desktop version of Word has all the functions missing from its online offering, meaning they ought to be added after the collaborative aspect of the document is ended up.
However, Google's offering does not allow for particular adjustments to paragraph spacing or paragraph marks at all.
Word likewise has a deep library of design templates that assist to create the most visually striking files you can. This makes style simple, as computer help brisbane the user only requires to replace placeholder text and images, and input brand name colors.
With the help of expert system, Word Ideas will use all its extra features to help users develop the very best document possible. This includes the design and composing in total.
Ideas may recommend a header format instead of by hand bolding and centering text. Text tips may be to remove lingo or abbreviations in favor of clearer phrasing.
Consider this as the next generation of spellcheck, as it does more than simply appropriate grammar, making your voice clearer.
Possibly most importantly, Word and its desktop apps offer functionality throughout platforms. Those using Microsoft 365 can quickly integrate their PowerPoint slides, Excel sheets and graphs, and other media from the M365 suite into their documents, and vice versa.
In addition, when files reach a certain length, like in the case of research study or manuscripts, Google Docs becomes weighed down. Word is more skilled at handling long-form documents without lag.
Thinking about that lots of services are currently using versions of Microsoft applications, this allows much better crossover when working with other companies.
M365 users will likely have less problems opening files from other companies, a million of which also utilize Word worldwide.
When it concerns features, Word and all of Microsoft 365 will take the crown.
Desktop apps have the capability to house much more functions than a web app, and that can be seen across M365 and Workspace as a whole.
Collaboration
The applications within Microsoft 365 were developed as specific, totally formed programs, with the ability of online collaboration added later in their life. Meanwhile, Google Workspace was developed with collaboration in mind, leaving a few of the heftier features behind.
Both offerings can be modified by several people simultaneously, saving to the picked drive practically instantly.
Word lags slightly in contrast to Docs, specifically when working out of the desktop app. Initially, it was not possible to send a collaborative link in Word online, however that feature has actually considering that been added.
It is also simpler to share documents quickly through Docs, and the ability to change consents for other users appears right away when trying to share.
That function is just a bit harder to reach with Microsoft, and you need to conserve the file to OneDrive to prevent versioning problems.
While the gap isn't as big as some will make it seem, Google Docs is absolutely much better for teaming up within companies. It is important to keep in mind that you may face compatibility issues with other business that do not utilize Docs. Google has said it will roll out compatibility with Microsoft documents considering that the launch of their web apps, they are yet to provide on that guarantee.
Considered that partnership has actually been a focal point during COVID-19, anticipate both suites to continue to concentrate on growing in this location.
Verdict
How much does an organization need in their word processor? It depends upon the strength of your documents.
If you usually only keep in mind or write brief internal documents, it may behoove you to benefit from the collective elements of Google Docs.
If your company exports longer manuscripts for proprietary research or uses really specific format, you'll absolutely need Microsoft Word. If your organization is sending documents to other companies, Word and 365 needs to guarantee compatibility.
Keep in mind that the word processors are only one piece of the Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace productivity suites.
It is likely that you are not making your decision based entirely on these applications, however the functions found on Word could be definitely required and force you towards M365.
IT Support Guys has leveraged the power of Microsoft 365 considering that 2008 when it was still called Business Productivity Online Suite (BPOS), and we have continued our partnership until today day.
